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It is with profound sadness that the family of Virginia Ann Zezulka, of Esko, announces her passing on Sunday, July 9, 2023, in Duluth, at the age of 81. She was born on Nov. 21, 1941, to Frank and Katherine Katchmark in Sturgeon Lake.

Virginia graduated from Willow River High School in 1959, where she loved cheerleading - "Go Wildcats" - and spending time with her friends. Her hobbies included gardening, fishing, spending time at Rosemarie's cabin and hanging out with her kids and grandkids on her front porch. Attending Mass every Sunday was very important to her, as her Faith in the Lord was profound.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life, James Louis; mother, Katherine Blanche (Kiminski) Katchmark; father, Frank Charles Katchmark; and 11 siblings.

Virginia is survived by four children, Tammy Thibert, Ken Zezulka, Matt (Kim) Zezulka, and Bradley (Kimmy) Zezulka; three sisters, Leona Bibeau, Rosemarie Thrun and Lee Gilbert; brother, Frank Katchmark; nine grandkids, Ryan, Tyler, Brittany, Gracie, Katie, Austin, Jonah, Cody and Kayla; and 7 great-grandkids, Murphy, Brynleigh, Jaylon Jr., Camden, Declan, Weston and Auggie; and many friends.

The family would like to offer a special thank-you to the St. Luke's Hospital and hospice staff for the loving care and respect they gave Virginia. Also, a special thanks to Ryan and Leah, whose love and kindness went above and beyond in her final days.

Visitation: 1-1:30 p.m. Friday, July 21 at St. Francis Church, 509 Sunrise Dr. in Carlton, with Rosary to follow. Funeral mass at 2 p.m. A luncheon will follow the service. To sign the online guestbook and leave a tribute, see http://www.atkinsnorthlandfuneralhome.com.

Pine Knot News July 14, 2023